The Syro-Malabar Eparchy of Great Britain held its annual Marian Pilgrimage at the National Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham on Saturday, the 19th of July 2025. Approximately six thousand faithful from across Great Britain participated in this event, making it one of the largest gatherings of the Eparchy.
The day began with morning prayers (Sapra), followed by Eucharistic Adoration and a Marian message by Rev Fr Joseph Mukkatt, Chairman of the Eparchial Youth and Migrants Commission. A solemn procession followed, during which the faithful prayed the Rosary and sang devotional hymns. Despite rain and adverse weather forecasts, the pilgrimage moved forward with deep devotion and unity, transforming Walsingham into a vibrant Marian celebration.
The Solemn Holy Qurbana was celebrated by His Excellency Mar Joseph Srampickal, with the participation of Proto-Syncellus Rev Dr Antony Chundelikkat, Chancellor Rev Dr Mathew Pinakkattu, Vice-Chancellor Rev Fr Fanswa Pathil, Finance Officer Rev Fr Joe Mathew, and other clergy from the Eparchy. The liturgy was reverently animated by the Eparchial Choir and the SMYM ‘Samayam Band’.
In his homily, Mar Joseph Srampickal called the faithful to pursue a life of holiness and completeness in faith. He reflected on the Blessed Virgin Mary’s role in salvation history, affirming the belief in Christ as the true God born without original sin. Citing St. Thomas Aquinas, he invited the faithful to entrust their lives to the intercession of Our Lady and deepen their commitment during the Jubilee Year and the Year of Spirituality.
The Rector of the Walsingham Basilica, Rev Dr Robert Billing, welcomed the Syro-Malabar community. Rev Dr Antony Chundelikkat, on behalf of the Eparchy, thanked the Rector, clergy, and volunteers for their support. The event was locally coordinated by Cambridge Regional coordinator Rev Fr Jinu Mundunadakkal.
Pilgrims, many of whom travelled long distances with their families, participated with great enthusiasm. The two-kilometre procession path remained filled throughout the day. The 2025 Walsingham Pilgrimage stood as a powerful witness of the Syro-Malabar Church’s unity and vibrant devotion in the UK. It was a grace-filled day of prayer, celebration, and deep Marian spirituality.
